1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,457 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 395 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | 323 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
